Shaheen Borna, a professor at Ball State University, reportedly called the police when a black student would not change seats in his class. The professor will not be teaching for the remainder of the semester as a result of his seemingly excessive reaction to this incident in his classroom. Kathy Wolf, the university’s president of marketing and communications said, “The decision was made to ensure continuity in the curriculum, eliminate any unnecessary distractions, and help our students complete the appropriate course expectations.”

Borna has been on the teaching staff at Ball State University since 1983. The alleged incident occurred when he recently asked a student to switch to a different chair in his Marketing 310 class. Sultan Benson, the student involved, said that the incident happened when he arrived to class and his usual seat was taken. Borna suggested that Benson take an open seat further back in the classroom. During class, a student from the front of the room left and Borna asked Benson to move up. Benson asked why the change was necessary as he was already settled and the class had been in session for 30 minutes. At this point things escalated and Borna allegedly threatened, “Either move your seat or I call the police.”

Campus police were eventually called to the scene. The alleged incident caused Benson to feel uncomfortable about returning to Borna’s class. He also has reportedly suffered increased anxiety and nightmares. Although university leaders claim that they want to use this alleged incident as a way to “learn and improve,” they have not permanently removed Borna from the teaching staff. Sign this petition to urge Ball State University to remove this allegedly racist professor from staff.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear President Mearns,

The recent incident of a longtime professor reportedly calling the police during an altercation with a black student appears excessive, inappropriate, and racially-driven. The classroom—especially at a higher education institution—should be a safe space for learning. The student involved has reported heightened anxiety and nightmares as a result of this incident.

Although Ball State has decided to remove this professor from the classroom for the remainder of the semester, his alleged actions speak to biases and a total lack of respect for students. I urge you to remove this reportedly racist professor from his position at Ball State University.